The special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court has denied dismissed deputy superintendent of police (Dy.SP) Devender Singh’s request for interim bail. However, Singh has been granted a five-day parole to participate in his father’s post-death rituals. Singh, who was arrested in January 2020 for transporting Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists, including commander Syed Naveed Mushtaq, will be allowed to attend the ‘Akhand Paath’ and other rituals in Srinagar between July 27 and 30 under police supervision.
Singh’s plea for interim bail was dismissed by the court, but he was granted custody parole on humanitarian grounds to partake in the religious ceremonies following his father’s demise. Singh, who has been in custody since his arrest, had requested a 20-day interim bail to be present at the cremation and rituals. The court, in its order on July 21, allowed Singh to participate in the rituals but emphasized that he must remain in police custody during the parole period.
The NIA, opposing interim bail for Singh, highlighted the serious charges against him under various acts, including the IPC, UAPA, Arms Act, and Explosive Substances Act. The agency expressed concerns about potential witness tampering if Singh were to be released but did not object to custody parole with appropriate police escort. Singh’s dismissal had raised security concerns in J&K due to his involvement in anti-terror operations and alleged connections with terrorists, leading to scrutiny of individuals associated with him.
